How to Ask for Gift Cards Without Feeling Awkward

Gift cards used to feel like a last resort — something you gave when you couldn't think of anything else.

That's changed. Today, gift cards are one of the most practical and appreciated items you can include on a registry.

But if you're worried about how to ask for them without seeming impersonal or greedy, you're not alone. Here's how to include gift cards thoughtfully — and why guests often prefer them.

Why Gift Cards Are More Accepted Than Ever

The stigma around gift cards has faded. Here's why:

• They let recipients choose exactly what they need
• They avoid the problem of duplicate or unwanted gifts
• They're easy for guests to buy — no guessing required
• They work well for couples who already have household basics

In fact, many guests prefer giving gift cards because they know the recipient will actually use them.

When Gift Cards Make the Most Sense

Gift cards are especially appropriate when:

• You're combining households and already have most essentials
• You have specific needs (groceries, home improvement, travel)
• Storage space is limited
• You'd rather choose items yourself
• You're saving for something bigger (furniture, honeymoon, etc.)

There's nothing awkward about wanting practical gifts. A thoughtful registry reflects your actual needs — and gift cards fit that perfectly.

How to Phrase It Politely

The key to asking for gift cards is framing them as one option — not the only option.

Phrases that work well:

• "Gift cards are always appreciated."
• "We've included a few gift card options for flexibility."
• "If you'd prefer not to ship a gift, a gift card works great."

What to avoid:

• "We only want gift cards."
• "Please don't buy us physical items."
• "Cash preferred."

Tone matters. If you make it feel like a demand, it can come across as impersonal. If you make it feel like a helpful option, it feels considerate.

For more on phrasing, our guide on how to share a gift registry without feeling awkward covers the etiquette in detail.

Which Gift Cards to Include

Add gift cards from places you actually shop. Good options include:

• General-purpose: Visa, Mastercard, Amazon
• Groceries: Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, local stores
• Home: Target, Home Depot, IKEA
• Dining: DoorDash, Uber Eats, favorite restaurants
• Experiences: Airbnb, airlines, event tickets

Mix it up based on your lifestyle. If you cook a lot, grocery cards make sense. If you're furnishing a new place, home improvement cards are practical.

Should You Include Cash Options Too?

Yes — if it makes sense for your situation.

Many couples now include:

• Honeymoon funds
• House down payment contributions
• Experience funds (cooking class, spa day, etc.)
• General cash gifts via Venmo, PayPal, or similar

The same rule applies: frame it as an option, not a demand. "Contributions toward our honeymoon" feels warmer than "send us money."

Mixing Gift Cards With Physical Items

The best registries include both.

Some guests genuinely enjoy picking out a physical gift. Others prefer the simplicity of a gift card. By including both, you:

• Respect different gifting styles
• Give everyone a comfortable option
• Avoid making anyone feel like they "have to" do something specific

A universal registry makes this easy — you can add physical items from any store alongside gift cards, all in one place.

What Guests Actually Think

Most guests appreciate having gift card options because:

• It removes guesswork
• It's quick and easy to buy
• They know it won't go to waste
• It works even for last-minute gifting

The "impersonal" stigma mostly comes from outdated etiquette. In practice, guests are relieved to have a simple, useful option.

The Bottom Line

Including gift cards on your registry isn't awkward — it's practical.

To do it well:

• Frame them as one option, not the only option
• Choose stores you actually use
• Mix in physical items for guests who prefer them
• Keep the language warm and appreciative

Gift cards help guests give with confidence — and that's exactly what a good registry should do.